Shaheen Applauds New Federal Survey on Biomass, Wood Pellets

**In a letter to the U.S. Energy Administrator in 2013, Shaheen called for a survey and data collection on biomass fuel**

December 14, 2016

(Manchester, NH)— U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) applauded the release of data on production and sales of biomass, including wood pellets, by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) today. This marks the first ‎time the federal government has collected and published detailed data on biomass fuel, which is the third most common heating fuel in the United States. The Densified Biomass Fuel Report will be released monthly. Shaheen, along with Sen. Collins (R-ME), sent a letter to the U.S. Energy Administrator Adam Sieminski in 2013 urging EIA to initiate a new survey to fill the information gap on this important industry. Shaheen has been actively working with EIA and interested stakeholders on this issue since that time.

“The release of comprehensive data on biomass fuels is welcome news for New Hampshire’s growing biomass industry,” said Senator Shaheen. “As wood heat continues to serve as a major source of energy for households across New Hampshire and around the country, it is critical that we measure its production and sales so that we have a clear picture of its impact when crafting energy policy and accounting for energy use.”